Under increasing pressure from antibiotic resistance and the growing demand for safe and sustainable livestock and aquaculture systems, Brevibacillus laterosporus is emerging as a highly promising biological agent in animal husbandry and aquaculture. Thanks to its superior biological properties, this bacterial strain not only supports growth but also enhances immunity and improves the farming environment.
Overview of Brevibacillus laterosporus
Brevibacillus laterosporus (formerly known as Bacillus laterosporus) is a Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium with motility and the ability to form spores — characteristics that allow it to survive well in harsh environments. It grows optimally under aerobic or microaerophilic conditions, within a temperature range of 15–37°C and a pH range of 3 to 7.
Habitat:
- Natural environments: soil, freshwater, dust, organic manure, and decomposing plant matter.
- Biological environments: the intestinal tracts of insects, shrimp, fish, and aquatic farming systems.
Key Biological Activities
- Production of bio-enzymes: such as protease, lipase, and chitinase — which help break down organic matter, support digestion, and improve water quality.
- Synthesis of natural antimicrobial peptides: capable of effectively inhibiting a wide range of pathogenic bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, and Vibrio spp.
Applications of Brevibacillus laterosporus in Aquaculture and Animal Farming
- Promoting Animal Growth
Brevibacillus laterosporus is recognized as an effective probiotic that enhances growth performance and improves nutrient metabolism. By producing digestive enzymes, this bacterium boosts nutrient absorption, lowers feed conversion ratio (FCR), and increases antioxidant activity as well as the function of digestive enzymes.
Recent studies (Darong Yang, 2023; Daode Yu, 2023) have demonstrated that fish and shrimp supplemented with B. laterosporus show significant improvements in growth, digestive efficiency, and oxidative resistance. It also supports healthy development and immunity in poultry and other livestock.
- Supporting Gut Health
B.laterosporus contributes to gut health by modulating the intestinal microbiota—encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria (such as Lactobacillus, Ruminococcus) while inhibiting harmful species (including E. coli, Pseudomonas, Salmonella, and Vibrio spp.).
As a result, it enhances digestion, nutrient uptake, and reduces the risk of digestive disorders—factors that are critical for maintaining the overall health and immunity of animals.
- Inhibiting Pathogenic Bacteria
This bacterium combats pathogens through multiple mechanisms. It naturally produces antimicrobial compounds—such as peptides and extracellular enzymes (like chitinase and protease)—that suppress or eliminate harmful bacteria such as Vibrio, Salmonella, and E. coli.
In addition, B. laterosporus competes with pathogens for nutrients and binding sites in the gut, thereby strengthening the animal’s immune defense and lowering the risk of infection—without relying on antibiotics.
- Controlling Harmful Algae and Improving Water Quality
Beyond animal health, B. laterosporus plays a role in managing pond ecosystems. It helps control harmful blue-green algae (cyanobacteria)—a major factor in declining water quality—by secreting enzymes that break down algal cell walls and releasing metabolites that inhibit algal photosynthesis.
By also competing for nutrients in the water, this bacterium helps limit algal overgrowth and contributes to a cleaner, more stable aquatic environment.
Commercial Application of B. laterosporus
FEED BLA, developed by Truong Hai Tien Co., Ltd., is an imported product containing the Brevibacillus laterosporus strain and offers multiple benefits for animal health and productivity:
– Enhances immunity and gut health
– Inhibits pathogenic bacteria
– Optimizes nutrient absorption
– Reduces farming time and treatment costs
– This product serves as a comprehensive biological solution, promoting sustainable, safe, and eco-friendly practices in animal husbandry and aquaculture.
For inquiries or detailed consultation, please contact Truong Hai Tien Co., Ltd. — our team is ready to support you.
